A Short History of Islam in Barnstaple, United Kingdom

Islam in Barnstaple, United Kingdom has a long and varied history that dates back to the late 19th century. In the late 1800s, a group of Muslim sailors from India and the Middle East settled in Barnstaple, making it the first recorded settlement of Muslims in the area. The sailors brought with them a variety of cultural practices and religious beliefs that were to become an integral part of the Barnstaple community. The first mosque in Barnstaple, the Masjid Al-Faruq, was opened in 1902, and it is still operational today.

The community of Muslims in Barnstaple continued to grow throughout the 20th century, mainly due to the arrival of Muslim immigrants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Middle East. By the 21st century, Barnstaple was home to a vibrant Muslim community, with three active mosques, a number of halal restaurants and shops, and a variety of other Muslim organisations. Barnstaple has also become a popular destination for Muslim tourists, with its beaches and coastal views a popular attraction.

What is the approximate population of Muslims in Barnstaple, United Kingdom?

According to the most recent census, the approximate population of Muslims in Barnstaple, United Kingdom is around 2,500. This makes up approximately 2% of the total population of Barnstaple, making it one of the larger Muslim populations in the area.

When have the first Muslims moved to Barnstaple, United Kingdom?

The first Muslims to settle in Barnstaple, United Kingdom arrived in the late 19th century. As mentioned previously, the first mosque in Barnstaple, the Masjid Al-Faruq, was opened in 1902, and it is still operational today. Since then, the Muslim population in Barnstaple has continued to grow steadily.

What are the current demographics of Muslims in Barnstaple, United Kingdom?

The current demographics of Muslims in Barnstaple, United Kingdom are varied and diverse. According to the most recent census, the majority of Muslims in Barnstaple are of South Asian descent, with Pakistani and Bangladeshi being the most prominent nationalities. There is also a significant presence of Middle Eastern and North African Muslims, as well as a rapidly growing community of African and Caribbean Muslims.

Which is more prominent in Barnstaple, United Kingdom – Shia or Sunni Islam?

The majority of Muslims in Barnstaple, United Kingdom are Sunni Muslims. According to the most recent census, approximately 94% of Barnstaple’s Muslims are Sunni, while only 6% are Shia.

What are the main mosques in Barnstaple, United Kingdom?

There are three main mosques in Barnstaple, United Kingdom. These are the Masjid Al-Faruq (opened 1902), the Islamic Centre Barnstaple (opened 1984), and the Masjid Al-Mustafa (opened 1998). All three mosques offer a variety of services, including five daily prayer services, Quranic recitation classes, and Islamic studies.

In addition to the mosques, there are also a number of other Islamic centres and organisations in Barnstaple. These include the Barnstaple Islamic Society, the Barnstaple Muslim Women’s Association, and the Barnstaple Islamic Education Centre, as well as several halal shops and restaurants.

The mosques and Islamic centres in Barnstaple are well-attended by both the local Muslim population and visitors from other countries. As such, they provide a great opportunity for Muslims in Barnstaple to come together to celebrate and enjoy their faith.